Head of M&A, Mergers and Acquisitions

One of our clients is a newborn Private Equity platform with a buy-and-build approach in the industrial sectors. They are looking for their first Head of M&A to complete 10 acquisitions in the next three years. They invest patient, long-term capital in “critical” small and mid-sized companies essential to resilient industrial supply chains across strategic sectors such as energy, chemicals, aerospace, and pharmaceuticals. Unlike traditional private equity, their model emphasizes long-term ownership and permanent capital: the strategy is to federate companies under secure ownership, preserving their entrepreneurial legacy while compounding growth in perpetuity. Operationally, Novaterra runs a decentralized model: each portfolio company operates autonomously under its own management team, supported by lean centralized functions. A unique approach, inspired by great Compounders such as Lifco, Indutrade, Roper Technologies. The Role: Head of Mergers & Acquisitions We are looking for a seasoned M&A leader to spearhead the acquisition strategy and execution. As Head of M&A, you will drive the end-to-end deal process, from identifying and evaluating targets to negotiating terms and closing deals, fueling the expansion of our industrial platforms. You will lead a dedicated M&A team, leveraging proprietary sourcing channels and maintaining a live pipeline of potential acquisitions vetted with our Investment Committee and advisors. This role partners closely with our CEO and Board. Whom are we looking for? We seek an accomplished corporate development or private equity executive with: Extensive M&A Experience: 10+ years leading M&A transactions (origination through integration), preferably in industrial or technology sectors across Europe. Strategic Vision: Ability to identify high-potential businesses and shape platform strategies, thinking beyond short-term horizons in line with our patient capital approach. Leadership & Influence: Strong leadership skills to build and guide a small M&A team, and the credibility to advise and collaborate with founders, portfolio CEOs, and board members. Deal Execution Excellence: Demonstrated success in negotiating and closing complex deals, with deep financial acumen and understanding of deal structuring, due diligence, and integration best practices. Entrepreneurial Mindset: Hands-on, proactive approach with a passion for building lasting companies – you thrive in a fast-paced, innovative environment and share our long-term commitment. Is this a fit for you? This is a rare opportunity to lead M&A in a newborn, forward-thinking investment group that prioritizes strategic impact over short-term gains. The project is supported by some of the most respected industrial families in Italy and Europe. You will play a key role in shaping an industrial powerhouse for Europe’s future, backed by an evergreen capital base and an experienced team of industry leaders. The role is deeply entrepreneurial : we're not looking for a process manager, we’re looking for a builder. Someone who thrives in ambiguity, who wants ownership, who’s willing to take calculated risks and be rewarded for long-term value creation. For this reason, our incentive structure is materially above market for this level of role: compensation is designed for someone who wants skin in the game , not just a title. If you want a predictable corporate track, this isn’t for you. But if you’re looking for high autonomy, high impact, and the upside to match, this is one of the most compelling M&A leadership roles in Europe right now.